COLUMBUS — State Sen. Brian Chavez announced that an emergency fund that helps assess and repair dangerous road slips will remain in the Senate’s version of Ohio’s two-year transportation bill.

Funded by a $15 million bond, the Public Works Grant Program is critical to protecting drivers and maintaining highway safety throughout southeastern Ohio.

“Here at home, the normal spring thaw brings more than the common pothole,” Chavez, R-Marietta, said. “Drivers often see the pavement cracking and falling away from hillside erosion or being damaged from falling boulders. This program is key to keeping our roads safe for residents and those we share the roads with, from the school bus driver to the truck driver.”